The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Nassau, Bahamas Right Now
Founded in 1670, Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas, is a vibrant and popular destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Cable Beach, is famous for its soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Boasting a rich history, there are several historical landmarks that showcase its colonial past. The Pirates Museum provides a fascinating look into Nassau's pirate history, while the Queen's Staircase, a limestone staircase of 66 steps, is a notable architectural and historical site. The vibrant past of Nassau is also reflected in the colorful buildings of the city.
Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas
Nassau is known for its vibrant and lively culture, with a strong influence from West African, European, and Caribbean traditions. The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the famous Junkanoo Festival, which features colorful parades, lively music, and elaborate costumes. The Bahamas, including Nassau, is a paradise for water enthusiasts. The Blue Hole, a natural limestone sinkhole filled with crystal-clear water, is a must-visit for diving enthusiasts seeking a unique underwater experience. These are the top five reasons why Nassau, Bahamas should be on your bucket list.
1. Where to Eat in Nassau: The Cuisine + Cocktails
Nestled in the vibrant Palmdale neighborhood of Nassau, Bahamas, Oasis Bar & Bistro stands out as a haven for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a taste of handcrafted excellence. This gem in the heart of the Bahamas boasts a menu curated with precision and creativity, offering a selection of the finest handcrafted cocktails that showcase the artistry of their skilled mixologists.
For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying one of their signature cocktails, Oasis Dune—concocted with Cognac, bourbon, dark rum, fresh-squeezed lemon and orange zest. Each beverage is a testament to the bar's commitment to quality and innovation. The laid-back, yet sophisticated ambiance enhances the overall experience, making it the perfect destination for those looking to savor expertly crafted cocktails in a chic and welcoming atmosphere.
Oasis Bar & Bistro in Nassau, Bahamas
Led by Executive Chef Corey Small, Nassau’s Oasis Bar & Bistro emerges as a culinary gem, offering an exquisite blend of Bahamian flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Renowned for its commitment to showcasing the best of local cuisine, the bistro's menu is a celebration of Bahamian culinary traditions with a modern twist.
Favorite dishes include Spring Rolls with housemade ginger garlic sauce, Conch Balls with with mango salsa and chipotle mayo, Rack of Lamb with mint chimichurri, 18-ounce Prime Angus Ribeye served with a choice of two decadent sides, Snapper Tacos tossed in a goat pepper lime aioli topped with mango salsa, as well as Salmon Linguine tossed in creamy white wine sauce. From the savory Conch Balls, a local delicacy, to the perfectly crisp Snapper Tacos, each dish is a flavorful journey through the rich tapestry of New Bahamian gastronomy.
Indulge your sweet tooth in the culinary delights of Nassau, Bahamas at Oasis Bar & Bistro, where the dessert menu is a symphony of exquisite flavors. The Oasis Crème Brûlée, a masterpiece of rich custard topped with a layer of crispy caramel, embodies the epitome of decadence. For those seeking a dessert adventure, Seventh Wonder is a showstopper, featuring a 7-layered red velvet cake filled with layers of cream cheese. Meanwhile, Desert Sunrise takes the taste buds on a journey with its fusion of seasonal sorbet, presenting a vibrant burst of Bahamian sunshine in every spoonful.
These delectable desserts redefine the sweet finale to a meal, ensuring that patrons leave with a lingering sense of culinary bliss. Here, authenticity meets innovation, making it a must-visit dining destination for those eager to savor the finest local cuisine within the Palmdale neighborhood in Nassau, Bahamas.
2. Artistic Oasis: Murals + Street Art
Nassau, Bahamas is a haven for art enthusiasts, boasting a thriving creative scene that reflects the rich, cultural diversity of the islands. Murals and street art colorfully adorn the city streets, turning Nassau into an open-air gallery that seamlessly blends contemporary expression with traditional influences. The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas is a focal point for visual arts in Nassau. Located in the historic Villa Doyle, a colonial-era home from 1860 that reflects Bahamian architectural traditions, the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas showcases Bahamian art from the pre-colonial era to contemporary works. It features a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and mixed-media pieces, providing a comprehensive overview of Bahamian artistic expression.
Image Courtesy: National Art Gallery of The Bahamas
The gallery's physical space itself can contribute to the overall artistic experience for visitors and plays a crucial role in shaping and preserving the cultural identity of The Bahamas through the visual arts. It serves as a hub for artistic expression and cultural discourse.
Image Courtesy: National Art Gallery of The Bahamas
Doongalik Studios is an art gallery and creative space that promotes Bahamian art and culture. It regularly hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events, showcasing the work of local and regional artists. The space plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of community among artists and art enthusiasts in Nassau.
Image Courtesy: Doongalik Studios
Located in downtown Nassau, right across the street from Marina Village, Bahamaian Craft Centre is a hub for traditional Bahamian crafts and artwork. Here, you can purchase handmade items such as straw goods, wood carvings, paintings, and jewelry, providing a glimpse into the vibrant craftsmanship of the Bahamian people—from over 100 booths. When it comes to shopping at the Bahamaian Craft Centre, the art of bartering is a necessary skill. You want to be sure to barter to get a good price, because no price is ever set in stone.
The downtown area of Nassau is a hotspot for street art, with numerous murals adorning buildings and walls—the streets feature colorful and expressive murals, adding a dynamic and artistic flair to the urban landscape. Some of these murals depict local culture, history, and marine life, contributing to the visual storytelling of the city. Given the Bahamas' stunning natural environment, murals often feature marine life, tropical flora, and other elements inspired by the local ecosystem. Guided walking tours that focus on street art have also become a way for visitors to explore the city's creative side.
3. Luxury Shopping Extravaganza: Explore Bay Street's Chic Boutiques
Shopping in Nassau, Bahamas offers a mix of local crafts, international brands, and duty-free goods. The Straw Market, situtated in between high-end boutique shops, is one of Nassau's most famous shopping destinations. Located in the heart of downtown Nassau, it is known for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide array of handmade Bahamian crafts. Visitors can find straw bags, hats, baskets, and other items crafted by local artisans.
Image Courtesy: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
Bay Street is the main shopping thoroughfare in Nassau, lined with shops, boutiques, and duty-free stores. Here, you can find a variety of items, including jewelry, clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. It's a popular destination for those looking to explore both local and international brands. Port Nassau is often bustling with activity, especially when cruise ships are in port. You’ll find shops offering duty-free goods, including jewelry, watches, perfumes, and electronics. The proximity of these shops to the cruise ship terminals makes it convenient for passengers to explore.
4. Botanic Bliss: Discover The Bahamas National Flower, the Yellow Elder
The Nassau Botanical Gardens, also known as the Retreat Gardens, is a peaceful and scenic botanical garden located in Nassau. The gardens have historical significance as they are located on the grounds of “The Retreat,” a former early 19th-century estate. Once known as the pit, these gardens were an old rock quarry supplying stones for roadways and the building of Fort Charlotte. The gardens now feature 18-acres of tropical flora covering over 600 species, including the Bahamas national flower, the Yellow Elder.
Image Courtesy: Nassau Botanical Gardens
In addition to the lush vegetation, the Nassau Botanical Gardens attract various bird species, butterflies, and other wildlife. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can enjoy observing the local fauna amidst the tropical greenery, as a peaceful escape from the bustling port city of Nassau, Bahamas.
5. Architectural Marvels: A Blend of Pastel-Hued Colonial Charm + Modern Elegance
Nassau, Bahamas boasts a rich history reflected in its architecture. The Caribbean city features a blend of colonial, Georgian, and Bahamian architectural styles, showcasing its diverse cultural influences. The circa-1801 Government House is a prominent historic building in Nassau and serves as the official residence of the Governor General of the Bahamas. This neoclassical-style mansion dates back to the early 19th century and features impressive columns, grand staircases, and beautiful gardens. Fort Fincastle is a historic fort located atop Bennet's Hill, offering panoramic views of Nassau. Built in 1793, the fort is known for its distinctive shape, resembling a ship's bow. It was constructed to protect the island from potential invasions.
Image Courtesy: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
Balcony House is one of the oldest wooden structures in Nassau, dating back to the late 18th century. This colonial-style building is characterized by its charming balcony, wooden shutters, and vibrant colors. It now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into Bahamian history. Parliament Square is a collection of pink-painted buildings that house the government offices and the House of Assembly. Built by British Loyalists in 1815, Parliament Square is a great example of the colonial architecture that was popular in Nassau in the early 19th century, and are a central part of Nassau's political and historical landscape.
Image Courtesy: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
If you only have time to visit only one fort in The Bahamas — Fort Charlotte is the most significant fortress in Nassau, built in the late 18th century. It is the largest of the three forts in the city and provides insights into the military history of the Bahamas. The fort includes a moat, dungeons, and underground passages. Exploring Nassau's historic architecture provides a fascinating journey through time, offering insights into the city's colonial past and its role in Bahamian history. Guided tours or self-guided walks through the city can provide a deeper appreciation for the architectural heritage of Nassau.
Where to Stay in Nassau, Bahamas
Since its opening, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas, has been a playground for celebrities and discerning travelers set along a 5-mile stretch of natural, white-sand beach on Paradise Island. Connect with Bahamian beauty in an enclave of remarkable seclusion, where intimate low-rise buildings are immersed in 35-acres of Versailles-inspired lawns and gardens. From introduction upon arrival to a friendly face throughout your stay, your personal attendant at Four Seasons provides you with just the right amount of attention needed to ensure your stay is seamless. Wake up to breakfast on your private balcony, then indulge in a restorative treatment in one of the Balinese-style spa villas or head out for a round of golf at Ocean Club Golf Course. However you spend your day, be sure to end your evening at the Martini Bar and Lounge for a nightcap.
Nestled within tropical foliage, the newly-renovated plunge pool bungalows at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas are made for a private friends or family retreat. The living and dining area is enhanced by two bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. Bright and airy in design and spaciously appointed, French doors open to an enclosed courtyard with a plunge pool. Just outside the bungalow is your own enclosed courtyard garden, outfitted with lounge furniture and a plunge pool, perfect for swimming and sunbathing in complete privacy. Wake up to breakfast on your private balcony, then indulge in a restorative treatment in one of the Balinese-style spa villas or head out for a round of golf at Ocean Club Golf Course. However you spend your day, be sure to end your evening at the Martini Bar and Lounge for a nightcap. Book below to reserve your room at the lowest price, guaranteed.
